I was referred to V.A. Hill Fine Strings by my violin teacher when I began my lessons. I rented my first violin with them and ended up purchasing a lovely instrument from them recently. I was pleasantly surprised to find a business that still understands good customer service in this day and age. The owner and staff are exceptional - patient, knowledgeable and most of all, seem to honestly care about whether the instrument is the right one for the customer. The prices are very competitive but not the lowest and there's a good reason for that - there's no point saving a few bucks at the big box music stores if playing the instrument will hurt and injure you because the fit isn't right. Fortunately, Vickie is simply a wizard when it comes to adjusting how an instrument will fit!
I have no hesitation about recommending them and they're definitely my first stop when I need help with my violin.